Part 3 · Course

SP473 OBSERVATIONAL ASTRONOMY

Physics and Nuclear Engineering · 3 versions

Offerings are listed from 2027-1 Fall through 2031-1 Fall.

SP473 OBSERVATIONAL ASTRONOMY

  • 3.5 credit hours
  • (BS=3.5, ET=0.0, MA=0.0)
  • Version 2024-1
  • In effect
Scope
This course is an introduction to the history, principles, and application of astronomical observation focusing on visual, photometric, and spectroscopic techniques. Cadets will be introduced to the methods and tools employed in modern astronomical observatories. Emphasis is placed on data analysis and statistics, geometrical and physical optics of telescopes, time systems, catalogs, and images obtained by telescopes equipped with light detectors. The course will include real-time observation of celestial objects, starting with objects in our solar system and expanding to the Milky Way.
Lessons
30 @ 75 min (2.000 Att/wk)
Labs
8 @ 75 min
Special requirements
Labs are held at night to properly observe celestial objects without solar interference.
Prerequisites
one of
SP473 version 2024-1 offerings
Term Sections Section size Capacity Enrolled Wait list Seats Closed Details
2027-1 Fall 2 15 30 26 0 4 No Hours for 2027-1 Fall
2028-1 Fall 2 18 36 12 0 24 No Hours for 2028-1 Fall
2029-1 Fall 2 18 36 6 0 30 No Hours for 2029-1 Fall
2030-1 Fall 2 12 24 0 0 24 No Hours for 2030-1 Fall

SP473 OBSERVATIONAL ASTRONOMY

  • 3.5 credit hours
  • (BS=3.5, ET=0.0, MA=0.0)
  • Version 2020-1
  • Archived
Scope
This course is an introduction to the history, principles, and application of astronomical observation focusing on visual, photometric, and spectroscopic techniques. Cadets will be introduced to the methods and tools employed in modern astronomical observatories. Emphasis is placed on data analysis and statistics, geometrical and physical optics of telescopes, time systems, catalogs, and images obtained by telescopes equipped with light detectors. The course will include real-time observation of celestial objects, starting with objects in our solar system and expanding to the Milky Way.
Lessons
30 @ 75 min (2.000 Att/wk)
Labs
8 @ 75 min
Special requirements
Labs are held at night to properly observe celestial objects without solar interference.
Prerequisites
one of

SP473 ASTRONOMY

  • 3.5 credit hours
  • (BS=3.5, ET=0.0, MA=0.0)
  • Version 2019-1
  • Archived
Scope
This course is an introduction to the history, principles, challenges and application of astronomical observation techniques including but not limited to radar ranging, laser ranging, visual, optical and spectroscopic techniques. Techniques will be introduced and applied, and will enable cadets to comprehend the tenants of scientific observation and discovery related to our solar system, galaxy and the universe. Exploration of space will begin with observations of terrestrial satellites, the solar system, and will expand to the Milky Way galaxy and beyond. PROVISIONAL - Full proposal in AY18
Lessons
40 @ 55 min (2.500 Att/wk)
Labs
8 @ 120 min
Special requirements
Labs must be held at night to properly observe celestial objects without solar interference.
Prerequisites
one of
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